‘Robber’ killed in Feni ‘gunfight’

The alleged ringleader of a robber gang was killed in a “gunfight” with members of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) in Sonagazi upazila of Feni last night.

Deceased Abul Kalam, 45, alias Bhagina Kalam, was an activist of local Jubo Dal, reports a correspondent quoting Squadron Leader Shafayat Jamil Harun, commanding officer of Rab-7.

On information that a gang was taking preparation in Italy Market area of the upazila for committing robbery, the elite force took position there around 8:00pm yesterday, said the commanding officer.

Sensing the Rab men’s presence, the gang opened fire targeting the team, forcing the elite force members to retaliate that triggered a “gunfight”, he said.

Kalam was hit by a bullet during the gunfire exchange and died on the spot, said the Rab official.

Later, locals identified the deceased as chief of the robber gang locally known as Kalam Bahini, he said.

The elite force also recovered three firearms and several rounds of bullets from the spot.

Kalam was wanted in 24 cases including murder and robbery, the Rab commanding officer said.